FAQs: Human Rights Project Grants

Frequently Asked Questions: Human Rights Project grants

Who can apply for a Human Rights Project grant?Non-profit organizations that are registered as a society or charity are eligible for funding. Public institutions may also apply.

Is my project eligible for a grant?Projects that address social exclusion, inequality of opportunity, discrimination, racism or other barriers that limit Albertans' ability to be full and contributing citizens are preferred. Proposed projects cannot be an ongoing program. Projects must take place in Alberta and benefit Albertans.

Can we get advice and feedback on our Expression of Interest proposal before we submit it? Yes. Please give us time to review your proposal and provide you with feedback. You will also need enough time to make any changes that you wish to make.

How long does it take before we know if our Expression of Interest or grant application has been approved?Expression of Interest applications that have good potential for success in advancing equality and freedom from discrimination will be notified in about one month and asked to complete a full grant application. You will have approximately a month to submit a full grant application. Grant applicants will be advised of the funding decision for their project within six months of the formal application submission.

What considerations will strengthen my application? • Projects are outcome-based and lead to change • Projects are not ongoing programs • Program initiatives can be sustained after this grant funding has ended • Applications show a strong commitment to evaluating the outcomesView how your Expression of Interest will be rated on the HRP Assessment form.

What is the maximum amount I can apply for?All requests that meet the eligibility criteria are evaluated on their merit and viability. The grant amount is based on the requirements of the project, the benefits to Albertans and funds available within the program. The average grant is less than $50,000. There are more requests for grants than there is funding available.

How much money is available for grants?Each year about $1 million dollars is allocated for all grant programs that are administered by the Commission. The Human Rights Education and Multiculturalism Fund budget supports these grants. The provincial government approves this budget which comes primarily from revenue from the Alberta Lottery Fund.

If our organization is not registered, can we partner with another organization?Yes, if your partner organization makes the application and accepts full legal, reporting and financial responsibility for completing the project as outlined in the application.

Can we apply for more than one grant per year?Yes, provided you are applying for separate and distinct projects and are capable of managing both projects.

How long can our project be?Most projects are completed in 12 months.

Can we apply for a multi-year project? A small number of multi-year projects may be funded. Prior to submission, you should consult with a grant consultant to discuss the specifics of timing and phasing of projects.

When should we plan to start our project?As soon as you receive written approval of your grant, you can start your project.

Where can we find examples of other projects you have funded?You can read about previously funded projects and past recipients on the Commission website.

Can we get feedback on our project after the grants have been awarded?Yes, we encourage you to keep in touch with your grant consultant throughout your project.

If we are unsuccessful, can we re-apply with the same project at the next deadline?You may contact a grant consultant to find out why your proposal was denied and options for funding in the future.

Revised: August 14, 2017

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